Sofia Swindell, a standout athlete representing the Virgin Islands Track and Field Federation and Lawrenceville School, has etched her name into the record books with a series of breathtaking performances that have redefined hurdling excellence in both the Virgin Islands and New Jersey.
At the recent New Balance National championship meet, Swindell broke her own Virgin Islands U20 National Record in the 100m Hurdles, clocking a blazing 13.49 seconds in the finals. This performance not only set a new national benchmark but also solidified her place as the greatest hurdler in Mercer County history, New Jersey, breaking county records in both the 100mH and 400mH events.
Swindell’s historic weekend began with the 400m Hurdles, where she ran an impressive 59.94 seconds, becoming the first girl in Mercer County history to break the 60-second barrier. Running from an inside lane, she attacked the race with confidence and held strong through the final stretch, finishing 9th in the championship division. Her time places her among an elite group—fewer than 20 girls in New Jersey have ever gone sub-60 in the last 25 years.
But it was in the 100m Hurdles where Swindell truly stole the spotlight. After tying the county record of 13.67 two weeks prior, she opened the meet with a 13.78 in the prelims. She then broke the record in the semifinals with a 13.60, securing a spot in the finals. On Sunday, she delivered her best yet—13.49 seconds—earning 3rd place overall and defeating the reigning state record holder, Taylor Cox of Union Catholic, by 0.05 seconds. Her time now ranks as the fourth-fastest fully automatic time in New Jersey state history.
Swindell ends her season ranked NJ #2 in the 100mH and NJ #3 in the 400mH, making her the only athlete in the top five of both events. Her versatility, speed, and poise under pressure have rightfully earned her the title of New Jersey’s best all-around hurdler in 2025.
A recent graduate of Lawrenceville, Swindell is headed to the University of Pennsylvania, where she’ll continue her athletic and academic journey. With her record-breaking performances and relentless drive, she’s already proven she’s ready for the next level.
All Virgin Islands athletes are encouraged to register with the Virgin Islands Track and Field Federation. Registration can be done online at the Federations website: Registration – Virgin Islands Track and Field Federation
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